Sodium Iodide I-131

Sodium Iodide I-131 Diagnostic capsules

What are Sodium Iodide I-131 diagnostic capsules?

SODIUM IODIDE I-131 is a drug that gives off radiation. It is trapped by thyroid in the body. The radiation is measured using a special camera. This medicine is used to check how well your thyroid gland is working. It is also used to find thyroid cancer spots that may have spread.

What should my health care professional know before I receive Sodium Iodide I-131?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking Sodium Iodide I-131?

You will need to have extra fluids before and after the procedure. You may be asked to follow a low-iodine diet or change your other medicines. Follow all instructions carefully.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Sodium Iodide I-131?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash or itching, hives, swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat

chest pain

fast or irregular heartbeat

trouble breathing

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

nausea or vomiting

upset stomach

Where can I keep my medicine?

This does not apply. You will only receive this medicine in a hospital or clinic.

Sodium Iodide I-131 Therapeutic capsules or solution

What are Sodium Iodide I-131 therapeutic capsules or solution?

SODIUM IODIDE I-131 is a drug that gives off radiation. It works to kill thyroid cells in the body. This medicine is used to treat hyperthyroidism and some thyroid cancers.

What should my health care professional know before I receive Sodium Iodide I-131?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking Sodium Iodide I-131?

Before your procedure you may be asked to follow a low-iodine diet or change your other medicines. You will need to have extra fluids before and after the procedure. You may need to stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days after your treatment. After you go home, visit your doctor for regular check ups. You will be given written and oral instructions for your care. Follow these instructions exactly. Ask your doctor if you have questions.

Radioactive iodine will be present in your urine for several days after the procedure. You may be asked to use a toilet rather than a urinal and flush the toilet several times after each use. Clean any spilled urine immediately and completely. Wash your hands thoroughly after urinating or cleaning up urine. If blood or urine gets into clothing, wash the clothing separately or store it for 1 to 2 weeks. Wash the sink and tub each time after bathing. Use separate towels and washcloths. Launder all clothes, linens, and towels separately. Avoid handling or using another person's eating or drinking utensils, food or drink, toothbrushes, and personal hygiene materials. Clean utensils, dishware, and personal items thoroughly after use. A dishwasher should be used whenever possible. Keep a minimum distance of 3 feet from others for 2 to 3 days. Avoid prolonged contact with others, especially children and breast-feeding or pregnant women. You should sleep alone with at least 7 feet of distance between you and others. Avoid intimate contact with others for 5 to 11 days, depending on the dose of medicine given.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Sodium Iodide I-131?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash or itching, hives, swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat

changes in weight

chest pain

excessive sweating or intolerance to heat

feeling depressed

fever or infection

irregular heartbeat

tremor, anxiety, or confusion

trouble breathing

unusually tired or weak

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

cough

dry mouth

hair loss

temporary loss of taste

throat tenderness, swelling, or pain

upset stomach, constipation, or nausea

Where can I keep my medicine?

This does not apply. You will only receive this medicine in a hospital or clinic.